GALA WILL RAISE MONEY TO FIGHT CANCER

Get ready to cruise to good will. The American Cancer Society will gather tonight for its annual gala. This year's theme is a grand cruise ship. The fund raiser generates an impressive $75,000 for the organization each year.

Cancer touches so many families. While great strides have been made in cancer research, there is still much work to be done. Events such as these provide much-needed dollars for both research and local cancer services.

The event will combine great food, music and elegance. A number of generous businesses have also donated wonderful prizes for raffles, including a 1999 Ford Ranger truck, $1,000 in cash, a seven-day cruise, and a $6,000 diamond.

An event of this magnitude couldn't be carried off in style without a virtual army of dedicated volunteers. They too deserve credit for making each year's gala such a success.

About 500 people will crowd into the Show Me Center tonight for the black-tie affair. It's a great opportunity to dress up and help a great cause.